Save A festive and whimsical dessert platter featuring classic gingerbread man cookies, complemented by a vibrant assortment of sweet treats, dips, and fresh fruit perfect for holiday gatherings.
I enjoy creating this cookie board every holiday season as it brings together family and friends in a joyful atmosphere.
Ingredients
- Gingerbread Man Cookies 3 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup brown sugar packed 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened 3/4 cup molasses 1 large egg
- Royal Icing (for decorating) 2 cups powdered sugar 1 large egg white (or 2 tablespoons meringue powder + 2 tablespoons water) 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Board Additions 1 cup chocolate-covered pretzels 1 cup mini marshmallows 1/2 cup assorted holiday candies (gumdrops, peppermints, etc.) 1 cup fresh strawberries halved 1 cup red and green grapes 1/2 cup white chocolate chips 1/2 cup caramel or chocolate dip
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- Form Dough:
- Add softened butter, molasses, and egg. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough in half, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll and Cut:
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out gingerbread men using a cookie cutter. Place on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10 12 minutes until edges are firm. Cool completely on wire racks.
- Prepare Icing:
- For royal icing, beat powdered sugar, egg white (or meringue powder and water), and vanilla until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag and decorate cooled cookies as desired. Let icing set.
- Arrange Board:
- Arrange gingerbread men in the center of a large board or platter. Artfully surround with chocolate pretzels, marshmallows, candies, fruit, white chocolate chips, and dips.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately or cover loosely and store at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Save This board has become a holiday tradition creating warm family memories every year.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls Electric mixer Rolling pin Gingerbread man cookie cutter Baking sheets Parchment paper Wire rack Piping bag (for icing) Large serving board or platter
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) eggs and dairy (butter) Some candies may contain nuts or soy check labels if serving to those with allergies
Nutritional Information
Calories 320 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 57 g Protein 3 g
Save This gingerbread man cookie board is sure to be the centerpiece of any holiday gathering bringing joy and festive spirit.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve soft gingerbread men?
Ensure you don't overbake; remove cookies when edges are firm but centers remain slightly tender. Chilling dough before rolling helps maintain shape.
- → What ingredients add warmth to the dough?
Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves provide a cozy, festive spice profile classic for holiday treats.
- → How is royal icing best applied?
Beat powdered sugar with egg white and vanilla until smooth. Use a piping bag for detailed decorating and let it fully set before serving.
- → What treats complement the gingerbread board?
Chocolate-covered pretzels, mini marshmallows, holiday candies, fresh fruits like strawberries and grapes, and dips add variety and balance.
- → Can I prepare this board ahead of time?
You can bake and decorate cookies a day ahead, then assemble the board shortly before serving to ensure freshness.